Woman takes legal action over bullies

A YOUNG handicapped woman will make legal history today with an action for damages against her local education authority for allegedly failing to protect her from school bullies.

The case could set a legal precedent for thousands of pupils bullied at school every year.

Becky Walker, 20, who has suffered from cerebral palsy since birth, is suing Derbyshire County Council for the distress and anguish she claims she suffered when she was intimidated and ostracised by other girls at Bolsover Comprehensive. She claims she was eventually forced to quit the school band after older girls started a campaign against her including unpleasant remarks and gestures.

The action at Nottingham County Court is viewed as a test case that could establish whether education authorities can be held legally responsible for safeguarding pupils from bullying.